Risk level(s) Risk level(s) Indonesia - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia due to political and social tensions and the threat of terrorism throughout the country. Safety and security Safety and security COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
In an attempt to limit the spread of COVID-19, most governments have implemented preventative measures and restrictions.
These could include:
- curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns
- the obligation to wear a face-covering, a surgical or respirator mask in some circumstances
- the obligation to present proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to access public and private services and spaces, including transportation, restaurants and cultural sites
Foreign authorities might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document.
Before travelling, verify if specific restrictions or requirements are in effect.
Foreign Representatives in CanadaPapua
Political tension and regular violent incidents have been occurring since October 2011 in Papua. Labour disputes at the Freeport-McMoRan mine near Timika have led to demonstrations, public transportation disruptions and violence.
Fatal attacks have occurred on roads near the mine. Foreigners have been targeted by local militants.
There is a heightened police and military presence in this area.Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Indonesia.
While effective counterterrorism measures by Indonesian authorities are in place, terrorist cells are active and have the capacity to carry out attacks throughout the country.
Attacks have targeted:
- military and government facilities
- tourist attractions and popular public places
- nightclubs and entertainment venues
- public transportation
- airports
Further attacks are likely, and terrorists may also target:
- crowded places
- places with high pedestrian traffic and where foreigners may gather
- commercial establishments
- local government offices
- public transit stations
- busy streets
- long lineups at tourist attractions
- places of worship
Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, including metal detectors, guards and security cameras. Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.
Be particularly vigilant during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.
- Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and identify ways to leave the area in case of emergency
- Monitor local media
- Follow the instructions of the local authorities
Violent crime, such as armed robberies, occurs regularly. Be particularly cautious on the road from Banda Aceh to Medan, where armed robberies have occurred.
Foreigners travelling alone and those travelling at night are at particular risk.
Standards of police services differ considerably from those in Canada.
- Avoid showing signs of affluence
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- If you’re travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs throughout Indonesia, specifically in tourist areas, such as Bali and Lombok. Criminals sometimes force people to withdraw cash from ATMs.
Merchants don’t always honour pricing agreements. Use good judgment in engaging services of tourist guides, especially in places that tourists rarely visit.Kidnapping
There is a threat of kidnapping, particularly in the province of Aceh. Foreign travellers have been kidnapped and killed. Terrorist groups have also kidnapped tourists in East and West Kalimantan.
- Be extra vigilant if travelling in these areas
- Avoid travelling alone and after dusk
- Use varied routes and schedules when moving from one place to another
Women travelling alone may face some forms of harassment and mulut abuse.
Safe-travel guide for womenDemonstrations
Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)Political and social tension
There are long-standing sectarian and social tensions throughout Indonesia, particularly in the provinces of:
- Central Sulawesi, in Palu, Poso and Tentena
- Maluku, especially in Ambon
- West Papua
Sectarian violence targeting civilians has occurred. The potential for violence remains, despite ongoing security operations efforts from local authorities. Be aware of your surroundings.Fraud
There is a very high rate of credit and debit card fraud in Indonesia, including online fraud.
When using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
- use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
More about overseas fraudSpiked food and drinks
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers, even if the wrapping or container appears intact. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
People have died after consuming drinks contaminated with methanol.Romance scams
If you’re travelling to Indonesia to meet someone you’ve only met online, keep it mind that you may be the victim of a scam. Be wary of unsolicited emails or requests for a wire transfer.
Don’t send money to someone you have never met in person.Road safety
Road conditions and road paling aman vary greatly throughout the country. Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy season.
Road travel in Indonesia can be very challenging due to:
- reckless driving
- perilous road conditions
- inadequate lighting
- poor signage
- high traffic congestion
If you plan to rent a car, consider hiring a driver.
Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities or major roads as some drivers do not use lights.
You may face mob anger if you are involved in an accident that causes serious injury. In such cases, remain in your vehicle and wait for a police officer to arrive.Motorcycles and scooters
Motorcycle and scooter accidents are the main cause of death and serious injury among foreigners visiting many parts of Indonesia, including Bali.
Rental motorcycles are also often targeted and stolen. In such cases, you may have to pay the replacement cost for a new motorcycle.Public transport
Public transport can be crowded and safety standards are poor. Many remote parts of Indonesia have poor transportation networks.Buses
Crashes involving overcrowded buses are common. Large buses are generally available only on Java. Minibuses are available elsewhere.
If you choose to travel by bus,
- keep in mind that minibus drivers may try to overcharge foreigners
- keep your belongings secure due to pickpocketing
The condition of taxis varies. Foreign travellers using taxis have been victims of armed robbery, either by the driver or other passengers.
- Pre-arrange transportation with a safe and reliable taxi company
- Only use a taxi company whose vehicles are equipped with a meter
- Never enter a cab if it already has one or more passengers
- Don’t hail taxis off the street and avoid using unmarked taxi services
Reliable taxis are available from Bluebird, Thunderbird and Express. Be careful of “lookalike” taxis from competitors.Ferries
Ferry accidents are common and are often caused by poor safety practices or extreme weather conditions.
If you choose to travel by ferry:
- make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate paling aman equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
- don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
- verify the paling aman standards of ferries with your tour operator